Country Club of Charleston

Posted on July 24, 2017Categories Course Reviews
Country Club of Charleston
Had vacation to Hilton Head Island this past week and was able to get away for a day to play golf in Charleston for an afternoon. A friend set up a tee time for us at the CC of Charleston with the club’s attorney and archivist. They are currently in the preparations for the 2019 U.S. Women’s Open.
Country Club of Charleston
The club is currently building a new clubhouse adjacent to the practice ground and 1st tee. This is a picture of the current clubhouse behind the 18th tee.
Country Club of Charleston
The 1st hole. As you can see, storm clouds were brewing as we started our round. A monsoon arrived on the 2nd fairway which lead to a 2 hour rain delay. Although unfortunate, this allowed for our host to discuss the history of the course and the restoration measures being undertaken over the past few years. The course is a Seth Raynor design that has a number of templates holes. This was apparent in the similarity between a number of the holes on the course in of similar design to another Raynor course in the area, Yeamans Hall.
Country Club of Charleston
The approach to the 10th green. After a good drive, this wedge shot lead to my only birdie of the round
Country Club of Charleston
The 11th hole. This is probably the most famous (or infamous) hole on the course. A reverse redan to a very difficult to hold green. Sam Snead once said that two sticks of dynamite would improve the hole. Ben Hogan said that the CC of Charleston had 17 great holes (implying this wasn’t one of them). On this day, I would have to agree with these gentleman. I missed the green left into a hidden mine shaft of a bunker. I’d still be playing the hole if I hadn’t needed to get back to Hilton Head by dinner.
Country Club of Charleston
The berm in front of the approach to the par 5 15th. Apparently this hole feature is controversial among the membership due to the difficulty of recovery shots for those caught in the tall grass along it.

I was very impressed by the course and it exceeded my expectations. As it has the same designer, I found it very similar to Yeamans Hall just up the road. I didn’t find it very difficult as there was room to spray the ball off the tee and yet was able to avoid much trouble. I think it will make a great venue for the U.S. Women’s Open. It was a treat to hear about the history of the course. Anyone given the opportunity to play this wonderful club should jump at the chance.

July 2017

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